I’ve been a lover of Nova 7 for the past few summers so I was thrilled to get a chance to tour Benjamin Bridge’s facilities. This tasting room is sleek, and we got to take a tour of one of the wine making rooms and it reminded me of one of the Champagne houses I visited in Reims. The winemaker was our leader during the tour and his passion for making wine really came across during the 90 minutes or so we spent with him. He had us try the Vero, Tidal Bay, the Rose, 2011 and 2012 Nova 7’s, their red wine and their ice wine. All were unique and delicious. It was surprising how much difference there was between the two Nova 7’s. Jean-Benoit also had us try a sample of the unrefined Pinot Noir grape juice to show us what it takes to become the delicious wine we know and love. This winery was the highlight of my wine weekend in Wolfville.
Ben B.
Place rating: 5 Vancouver, Canada
Winning over wine snobs and cheap drunks alike, Benjamin Bridge is the home of the glorious Nova 7, spectacular Tidal Bays, and sparklings that are well outside of my personal price range. In a rare glimpse of what heaven must be like, I was able to visit the facility for their first private tour and tasting led personally by their winemaker Jean-Benoit Deslauriers. I know, right? I still can’t really process all The Happy that swept through me that day. Certainly more focused on wine production than your average winery with gift shops, gardens and bistros, there isn’t much to see at Benjamin Bridge outside of their very sleek décor and monogrammed lobby which I may conveniently steal seeing as we share the same initials. That said, when they open for tours, you won’t be disappointed. We were able to learn more about their history, wine-making process, the unique local environment and how that impacts what ends up in the glass, and their many commitments to minimize their eco footprint on the area. And of course we got to try many, many wines. Easily one of the best experiences I’ve had so far this year!
Jill M.
Place rating: 5 Halifax, Canada
I was lucky enough to experience a private tour of Benjamin Bridge during a recent trip to the valley, and if rumors are correct soon others will be able to take in this absolutely fantastic experience as well. What I love about Benjamin Bridge is that they know what Nova Scotia does well when it comes to wine — sparkling wines and aromatic whites. And luckily, those are right up my alley! I loved hearing from winemaker Jean-Benoit Deslauriers about how all the wines are made. He clearly has such a passion for what he does and so much knowledge, I left with a much greater appreciation for the Nova 7 I so often consume!
